Seeking healthcare for pelvic floor disorders: a population-based study

Measuring Pelvic Organ Prolapse: An Evolution

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Advances in our understanding of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) have been made with the introduction of valid, reliable measures of anatomy and patient-reported outcome measures.

METHODS

This review provides an overview of the evolution of POP measurement and its implications for clinical practice and research.

RESULTS

Since the introduction of the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POPQ), studies have demonstrated that some degree of loss of anatomic support is normal, with as many as 40% of normal women having stage 2 prolapse. Vaginal support is dynamic and can wax and wane but is largely stable over time. Vaginal bulge symptoms are the most reliable and specific symptom for POP and the hymen is an important threshold for symptom development. Most pelvic floor symptoms have only weak to moderate correlation with the anatomic severity of POP. Treatment success rates are highly variable depending upon criteria used and definitions of anatomic success commonly used are too strict and often not clinically relevant. There is substantial discordance between subjective and anatomic measures of success, and both are dynamic, fluctuating between success and failure for many patients without intervening treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Pelvic organ prolapse is multidimensional, dynamic, and has a complex impact on patients. Patients' symptoms are more clinically relevant than anatomic support. Symptomatic cure, particularly the absence of vaginal bulge symptoms, is more clinically relevant than anatomic cure and composite outcomes can be misleading and overestimate failure rates. Future studies should compare treatments using continuous variables along multiple dimensions rather than using composite outcomes or dichotomizing patients into success or failure.

Access to Urogynecologic Care in Federally Qualified Health Centers: A Mystery Caller Study

IMPORTANCE

Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) play an important role in providing care to underserved populations. However, little is known about the availability of urogynecology services at FQHCs.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to assess the availability of appointments for urogynecology care and to determine the prevalence of FQHCs offering urogynecologic services.

STUDY DESIGN

A total of 362 FQHCs across the United States were randomly selected from the Health Resources and Services Administration website, based on specific inclusion criteria. Researchers called the FQHCs and requested the earliest available appointment for pelvic organ prolapse. The availability of urogynecologic services such as pessary fittings, pelvic floor physical therapy, and urodynamic studies was also inquired.

RESULTS

A total of 362 FQHCs located in 46 states and the District of Columbia were called. On average, the 362 FQHCs had been established for 19.9 (SD ±15) years, were located in urban areas, and served a median county population of 24,573. Of the 220 FQHCs successfully contacted, 81% (180/220) reported that they could provide care for a patient with pelvic organ prolapse at an appointment 29.1 business days (SD ±30 days) from the date of the call, on average. However, only a small percentage of these FQHCs offered in-office pessary fittings (11%), complex multichannel urodynamics testing (8.6%), or pelvic floor physical therapy (5%).

CONCLUSION

The availability of treatments for pelvic floor disorders at FQHCs is limited. These findings highlight a potential disparity in access to urogynecology services for individuals with public insurance.

Differences in help-seeking behaviour between males and females with multiple pelvic floor symptoms: A qualitative study

Background

Pelvic floor symptoms (PFS) are common and frequently co-occur, but few patients seek help despite negative effects on their quality of life. Moreover, most studies assessing help-seeking behaviour have only focused on a single PFS.

Aim

We aimed to explore the barriers to and facilitators of help-seeking behaviour in males and females with at least two PFS.

Design and Setting

This interview-based study included participants by age and symptoms (number and type) from a larger group taking part in a survey on PFS in the general population.

Method

Two researchers independently encoded and analyzed the semi-structured interviews, which continued to saturation for both the male and female cohorts.

Results

Of the 25 participants (13 male and 12 female), 9 sought help for all PFS, 10 did not seek help for any PFS, and 6 sought help for some PFS. We identified themes in domains related to the patient, healthcare professional, environment, and symptoms. Although most themes applied to both sexes, some had greater sex specificity.

Conclusion

Males and females have more similarities than differences in help-seeking behaviour. Healthcare providers should know that patients who seek help for one symptom probably have multiple PFS that the patient has not reported.

Pelvic Floor Disorders in Black Women: Prevalence, Clinical Care, and a Strategic Agenda to Prioritize Care

Pelvic floor disorders are a group of common conditions affecting women of all racial and ethnic groups. These disorders are undertreated in all women, but this is especially magnified in Black people who have been historically marginalized in the United States. This article seeks to highlight the prevalence of pelvic floor disorders in Black women, evaluate the clinical care they receive, examine barriers they face to equitable care, and present a strategic agenda to prioritize the care of Black women with pelvic floor disorders.

Pelvic Floor Dysfunction among Reproductive-Age Women in Israel: Prevalence and Attitudes-A Cross-Sectional Study

Objectives: Our study aimed to investigate the prevalence of female pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) in Israeli women who experienced vaginal delivery and are in their reproductive years (premenopausal), as well as to understand their attitudes and health-seeking behavior and barriers towards treating this problem. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we conducted a questionnaire-based Internet survey. The surveys were sent to Israeli women in their fertile years (18-50 years old). We asked the women about their PFD symptoms, attitudes, and help-seeking behaviors. We used two validated questionnaires, including the USIQ and the PFDI-20. The combined questionnaire was submitted in both Hebrew and Arabic. We assessed the prevalence of PFD symptoms in the study population. Symptomatic women were asked about their help-seeking behaviors and their beliefs, desires, and barriers regarding the clinical management of symptoms. Results: Between July and September 2020, 524 women completed the questionnaire (response rate 44%). In total, 95% reported at least one symptom (mostly urinary-related) at any grade of severeness in at least one category, and 66.8% suffered from at least one moderate to severe symptom in at least one category. Most women (93.7%) reported that they wanted to be asked and offered voluntary information about PFD from physicians and nurses; however, only 16.6% reported receiving such information. Barriers to seeking treatment were mainly related to low awareness. The study's main limitation was selection bias due to the questionnaire's design. Conclusions: These findings show the importance of raising awareness of the different therapeutic solutions to PFD symptoms and designing more available services for this common problem.

Association of Pelvic Floor Disorders, Perceived Psychological Stress, and Military Service in U.S. Navy Servicewomen: A Cross-Sectional Survey

IMPORTANCE

Pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) are linked to psychological stress and decreased work performance in civilian populations. Higher psychological stress is reported in female active-duty servicewomen (ADSW), which affects military readiness.

OBJECTIVE

This study sought to associate PFDs, work-related challenges, and psychological stress in ADSW.

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted a single-site, cross-sectional survey of ADSW seeking care in the urogynecology, family medicine, and women's health clinics between December 2018 and February 2020 using validated questionnaires to determine the prevalence of PFDs and the association with psychological stress, performance of military duties, and continued military service.

RESULTS

One hundred seventy-eight U.S. Navy ADSW responded; most were seeking care for PFDs. The reported prevalence rates of PFDs were as follows: urinary incontinence, 53.7%; pelvic organ prolapse, 16.3%; fecal incontinence, 73.2%; and interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome, 20.3%. Active-duty servicewomen with PFDs were more likely to have higher psychological stress scores (22.5 ± 3.7 vs 20.5 ± 4.2, P = 0.002) and body composition failures (22.0% vs 7.3%, P = 0.012), yet more strongly consider remaining on active service if they reported urinary incontinence (22.8% vs 1.8%) or interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (19.5% vs 1.8%; all P ≤ 0.001). No significant differences were noted in physical fitness failures or other military duties.

CONCLUSIONS

For these U.S. Navy ADSW with PFDs, there was no significant difference in duty performance but reported psychological stress levels were higher. The presence of PFD was associated with women more strongly considering ongoing military service compared with other factors such as family, job, or career path.

Screening and Treating Urinary Incontinence in Primary Care: A Missed Opportunity

More than 60% of adult women in the United States have urinary incontinence (UI), with the prevalence increasing to over 80% in women over age 65. Despite its high prevalence, most patients do not seek care and few clinicians screen for UI. The Medicare Health Outcomes Survey queries patients about satisfaction with their provider's discussion and management of UI, but formal recommendations about screening, diagnosis, and treatment are lacking. This review presents a practical algorithm for primary care providers to incorporate management of UI into routine preventive care for women, and outlines UI prevalence, risk factors, screening, and non-surgical treatment options.

Exploratory mixed methods study on care-seeking behaviors of Asian Americans with pelvic floor symptoms

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The objective was to evaluate whether younger age was associated with noncare-seeking behavior among Asian Americans with pelvic floor symptoms, and secondarily, to explore multilevel factors that may contribute to noncare-seeking behavior in this population.

METHODS

We performed a concurrent mixed methods study and heterogeneously sampled Asian Americans with urinary incontinence, urgency-frequency, vaginal bulge, or anal incontinence. We stratified the participants into two groups, care seekers vs noncare seekers. Using Anderson's model as the main framework, we administered validated questionnaires and conducted semi-structured interviews to explore factors associated with care-seeking behaviors.

RESULTS

Seventy-eight surveys and 20 interviews were completed and analyzed. Most participants reported urinary leakage (67%), followed by urinary urgency-frequency (50%), anal incontinence (18%), and vaginal bulge (17%). The mean age of the study cohort was 46.1 ± 16.2 years. We found noncare seekers to be younger and with an increased proportion of lifetime spent in the USA than care seekers. When controlling for age, proportion of lifetime spent in the USA, symptom severity, and individual-level resources, both younger age and increased proportion of lifetime spent in USA remained independently associated with noncare-seeking behavior. From qualitative data, we found that noncare seekers often experienced anti-Asian racism across workplace, neighborhoods, and health care settings. Additionally, noncare seekers also reported symptom minimization and decreased self-efficacy when coping with their pelvic floor symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that one's age and proportion of lifetime spent in the USA may affect the extent of exposure to anti-Asian racism that is associated with symptom minimization, increased perceived barrier, and noncare-seeking behavior.

Condition-specific validation of the Arabic version of the Prolapse and Incontinence Knowledge Questionnaire (PIKQ) among parturient

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Pregnancy and mode of delivery have a major effect on pelvic floor disorders (PFD). Assessing knowledge regarding PFD is essential not only for making more informed decisions regarding mode of delivery, but also for seeking help when PFD appear. The Prolapse and Incontinence Knowledge Questionnaire (PIKQ) is a validated tool that assesses women's knowledge regarding urinary incontinence (UI) and pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Validation of the Arabic version of the PIKQ had never been carried out. The purpose of this study was to conduct a condition specific validation among parturients of the PIKQ in the Arabic language.

METHODS

Translation of the PIKQ to the Arabic language was carried out according to international recommended guidelines. A cross-sectional study of pregnant women was conducted from June to September 2020 at the Soroka University Medical Center, Israel. The recommended 10:1 ratio between the number of subjects and the number of items in the questionnaire (n=24) was maintained. A total of 244 third trimester pregnant women have completed the Arabic version of the PIKQ. In addition to the validation of the psychometric characteristics, construct validity, criterion validity, and reliability were tested as well.

RESULTS

Initially, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was conducted, resulting in two 12-item scales representing UI and POP. Then, to validate the scale construct we conducted confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Results of the CFA demonstrated that the PIKQ displayed construct validity, with standardized factor loadings ranging from 0.30 to 0.62. Finally, Cronbach's alpha indicated a good internal reliability for the two factors UI and POP. Criterion validity further supported the validity of the scale.

CONCLUSIONS

The Arabic version of the PIKQ is a new, reliable, consistent, and valid instrument to examine the level of knowledge regarding UI and POP in Arabic speaking pregnant women. This instrument may be used to assess women's knowledge about PFD and to direct the need for educational interventions that may empower women to make informed decisions regarding perinatal care.

Inequality in healthcare-seeking behavior among women with pelvic organ prolapse: a systematic review and narrative synthesis

INTRODUCTION

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) affects women's quality of life in various aspects. However, evidence on the healthcare-seeking behavior of women with POP is limited. Therefore, this review aimed to identify and synthesize the existing evidence on the healthcare-seeking behavior among women with POP.

METHODS

This systematic review and narrative synthesis of the literature on healthcare-seeking behavior among women with POP was conducted from 20 June to 07 July 2022. The electronic databases PubMed, African Journals Online, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, African Index Medicus and Directory of Open Access Journal, and Google Scholar were searched for relevant literature published from 1996 to April 2022. The retrieved evidence was synthesized using a narrative synthesis approach. The characteristics of included studies and the level of healthcare-seeking behavior were summarized in a table and texts. Error bar was used to show the variability across different studies.

RESULTS

A total of 966 articles were retrieved of which only eight studies with 23,501 women (2,683 women with pelvic organ prolapse) were included in the synthesis. The level of healthcare-seeking behavior ranges from 21.3% in Pakistan to 73.4% in California, USA. The studies were conducted in four different populations, used both secondary and primary data, and were conducted in six different countries. The error bar shows variation in healthcare-seeking behavior.

CONCLUSIONS

The level of health-care seeking behavior among women with POP is low in low-income countries. There is substantial variability in the characteristics of the reviewed studies. We recommend a large-scale and robust study which will help to better understand the healthcare-seeking behavior among women with POP.

Healthy bladder storage and emptying functions in community-dwelling women measured by a 2-day bladder health diary

INTRODUCTION

The prevalence of healthy bladder storage and emptying function in community-dwelling women is not well established.

METHODS

A planned secondary analysis of a US cross-sectional study designed to validate a bladder health instrument was conducted in women aged ≥18 years. A subset was invited to complete the novel 2-day bladder health diary capturing bladder storage and emptying experiences. Overall healthy bladder function was defined as ≤8 waking/daytime voids and ≤1 void during sleeping/nighttime; along with the absence of leakage, urgency, emptying difficulties (initiation, flow, efficacy, relief of urge sensation) and pain. Descriptive statistics of healthy bladder functions and regression models of factors associated with healthy function are reported.

RESULTS

Of the 383 invited, 237 (62%) eligible women returned complete dairies. Of these, 12% (29/237) met criteria for overall healthy bladder function. Most (96%) denied pain, 74% had healthy daytime and 83% had healthy nighttime voiding frequency, 64% were continent, 36% reported healthy emptying and 30% denied any urgency episodes. Middle income (odds ratio [OR]:95% confidence interval [CI] = 11.4:1.9-67.4 for $75k-$99 999 vs. $25 000-$49 999), Graduate education (4.8:1.4-17) and previously seeking treatment for bladder problems (OR:95%CI = 0.1; 0-0.9) were associated with overall healthy function.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of overall healthy bladder function was very low based on our strict definition of health as measured on a 2-day diary. However, most women had healthy voiding frequency and denied pain or urinary leakage. Postvoid dribbling and urgency most commonly contributed to an overall unhealthy bladder. Further investigation is needed to determine whether these diary derived measures are meaningful for patient-oriented bladder health research.

Knowledge of women during the third trimester of pregnancy regarding pelvic floor disorders

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The objective was to examine knowledge regarding pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) among women during the third trimester of pregnancy.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted at a large teaching medical center in Israel between June and September 2020. Women in their third trimester (N = 649) were asked to complete the validated Hebrew and Arabic versions of the Prolapse and Incontinence Knowledge Questionnaire (PIKQ). The PIKQ instrument examines the knowledge of two major PFDs: urinary incontinence (UI) and pelvic organ prolapse (POP). The study population included women over 18 years of age, in the third trimester, who speak and read Hebrew or Arabic fluently. Two separate scores were calculated, one for each section of the PIKQ. The association of questionnaire scores with the different independent variables was examined using Student's t test or one-way ANOVA. Correlations were examined using Pearson's or Spearman's correlation coefficient.

RESULTS

The Hebrew version was filled out by 405 women, and 244 women completed the Arabic version. The average questionnaire scores were 7.65 ± 2.8 and 5.32 ± 2 for the UI and POP sections respectively. Significantly higher average scores in both the UI and the POP sections were noted among health care workers (UI: 10.19 ± 2.3 vs 7.34 ± 2.6, p < 0.001; POP: 8.27 ± 2.7 vs 4.97 ± 2.6, p < 0.001), women with higher education (p < 0.001 in both parts) and those with higher incomes (p < 0.001 for both parts).

CONCLUSIONS

Knowledge of PFD among women in the third trimester of pregnancy in Israel was found to be low. Founding educational programs for targeted groups may improve both the knowledge of PFD and the quality of life for these women.

Conservative interventions for treating urinary incontinence in women: an Overview of Cochrane systematic reviews

BACKGROUND

Urinary incontinence (UI) is the involuntary loss of urine and can be caused by several different conditions. The common types of UI are stress (SUI), urgency (UUI) and mixed (MUI). A wide range of interventions can be delivered to reduce the symptoms of UI in women. Conservative interventions are generally recommended as the first line of treatment.

OBJECTIVES

To summarise Cochrane Reviews that assessed the effects of conservative interventions for treating UI in women.

METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Library to January 2021 (CDSR; 2021, Issue 1) and included any Cochrane Review that included studies with women aged 18 years or older with a clinical diagnosis of SUI, UUI or MUI, and investigating a conservative intervention aimed at improving or curing UI. We included reviews that compared a conservative intervention with 'control' (which included placebo, no treatment or usual care), another conservative intervention or another active, but non-conservative, intervention. A stakeholder group informed the selection and synthesis of evidence. Two overview authors independently applied the inclusion criteria, extracted data and judged review quality, resolving disagreements through discussion. Primary outcomes of interest were patient-reported cure or improvement and condition-specific quality of life. We judged the risk of bias in included reviews using the ROBIS tool. We judged the certainty of evidence within the reviews based on the GRADE approach. Evidence relating to SUI, UUI or all types of UI combined (AUI) were synthesised separately. The AUI group included evidence relating to participants with MUI, as well as from studies that combined women with different diagnoses (i.e. SUI, UUI and MUI) and studies in which the type of UI was unclear.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 29 relevant Cochrane Reviews. Seven focused on physical therapies; five on education, behavioural and lifestyle advice; one on mechanical devices; one on acupuncture and one on yoga. Fourteen focused on non-conservative interventions but had a comparison with a conservative intervention. No reviews synthesised evidence relating to psychological therapies. There were 112 unique trials (including 8975 women) that had primary outcome data included in at least one analysis. Stress urinary incontinence (14 reviews) Conservative intervention versus control: there was moderate or high certainty evidence that pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT), PFMT plus biofeedback and cones were more beneficial than control for curing or improving UI. PFMT and intravaginal devices improved quality of life compared to control. One conservative intervention versus another conservative intervention: for cure and improvement of UI, there was moderate or high certainty evidence that: continence pessary plus PFMT was more beneficial than continence pessary alone; PFMT plus educational intervention was more beneficial than cones; more-intensive PFMT was more beneficial than less-intensive PFMT; and PFMT plus an adherence strategy was more beneficial than PFMT alone. There was no moderate or high certainty evidence for quality of life. Urgency urinary incontinence (five reviews) Conservative intervention versus control: there was moderate to high-certainty evidence demonstrating that PFMT plus feedback, PFMT plus biofeedback, electrical stimulation and bladder training were more beneficial than control for curing or improving UI. Women using electrical stimulation plus PFMT had higher quality of life than women in the control group. One conservative intervention versus another conservative intervention: for cure or improvement, there was moderate certainty evidence that electrical stimulation was more effective than laseropuncture. There was high or moderate certainty evidence that PFMT resulted in higher quality of life than electrical stimulation and electrical stimulation plus PFMT resulted in better cure or improvement and higher quality of life than PFMT alone. All types of urinary incontinence (13 reviews) Conservative intervention versus control: there was moderate to high certainty evidence of better cure or improvement with PFMT, electrical stimulation, weight loss and cones compared to control. There was moderate certainty evidence of improved quality of life with PFMT compared to control. One conservative intervention versus another conservative intervention: there was moderate or high certainty evidence of better cure or improvement for PFMT with bladder training than bladder training alone. Likewise, PFMT with more individual health professional supervision was more effective than less contact/supervision and more-intensive PFMT was more beneficial than less-intensive PFMT. There was moderate certainty evidence that PFMT plus bladder training resulted in higher quality of life than bladder training alone.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is high certainty that PFMT is more beneficial than control for all types of UI for outcomes of cure or improvement and quality of life. We are moderately certain that, if PFMT is more intense, more frequent, with individual supervision, with/without combined with behavioural interventions with/without an adherence strategy, effectiveness is improved. We are highly certain that, for cure or improvement, cones are more beneficial than control (but not PFMT) for women with SUI, electrical stimulation is beneficial for women with UUI, and weight loss results in more cure and improvement than control for women with AUI. Most evidence within the included Cochrane Reviews is of low certainty. It is important that future new and updated Cochrane Reviews develop questions that are more clinically useful, avoid multiple overlapping reviews and consult women with UI to further identify outcomes of importance.

Development of symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse over 10 years of mid-life follow-up is affected by occupational lifting and/or pushing for parous women

OBJECTIVE

To document the risk of new-onset symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse (POP) among perimenopausal women and examine whether occupational lifting and/or pushing is a risk factor in the development of POP over a 10-year follow-up window.

STUDY DESIGN

Secondary analysis of prospective, longitudinal data from the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN) cohort study.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

We analyzed women with current employment at the start of SWAN who were followed annually during mid-life. At baseline, women self-reported the frequency of occupational lifting and pushing, which was classified as Never, Infrequent (less than half the time), or Frequent (half the time or more) occupational lifting and/or pushing. Women were asked about new-onset symptomatic POP from the second to tenth annual follow-up. Modified Poisson regression was used to quantify crude and adjusted risk ratios (RRs) and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs) for POP according to load-bearing categories. Parous women were modelled separately, as initial analyses suggested effect modification by parity status.

RESULTS

In our sample of 1590 parous women, 8.2 % reported new-onset symptomatic POP over 10 years of follow-up. Multivariable analysis revealed that Infrequent (aRR 1.51, 95 % CI 1.04-2.20) and Frequent (aRR 2.03, 95 % CI 1.29-3.17) occupational lifting and/or pushing were associated with the development of POP.

CONCLUSION

Frequent occupational lifting and/or pushing significantly increased parous women's risk of developing POP symptoms. This strengthens existing evidence that occupational exposures can be risk factors for POP. Gender-based education and prevention strategies in the workplace and in primary health care are necessary to reduce the burden of this condition for mid-life women.

The adaptation states of women with urinary incontinence according to the Roy Adaptation Model: A qualitative study

AIMS

This study aimed to explore experiences of women with urinary incontinence (UI) according to the Roy Adaptation Model (RAM).

METHODS

A phenomenological design was used in this study, and its conceptual framework was formed by the RAM. The sample was composed of 12 women with UI. Face-to-face in-depth interviews were conducted according to data collection tools. Semi-structured interviews were recorded in audio-recording device. Thematic approach was used to assess the data.

RESULTS

The average age of the women was 52.77 ± 7.32 years, seven women had menopause, eight had vaginal birth. According to the thematic approach, four main themes emerged: physiological mode, self-esteem mode, role function mode, and interdependence mode and they had difficulties in this regard.

CONCLUSIONS

The results show that women cannot adapt to the problem of incontinence according to the dimensions of RAM. These factors are important to consider when developing strategies to address UI, diagnosis, and treatment.

Validation of the hebrew version of the prolapse and incontinence knowledge questionnaire (PIKQ) during pregnancy

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Pregnancy and delivery have a major effect on pelvic floor disorders. Assessing knowledge regarding pelvic floor disorders in childbearing age women and appropriate interventions will enable women to seek appropriate medical advice once pelvic floor disorders have developed. The purpose of this study was to validate the prolapse and incontinence knowledge questionnaire in the Hebrew language.

METHODS

Translation of the prolapse and incontinence knowledge questionnaire to the Hebrew language according to international recommended guidelines. A study was conducted to validate the questionnaire. The study took place between June to September 2020 in a tertiary medical center in Israel. A total of 240 third trimester pregnant women completed the Hebrew version of the prolapse and incontinence knowledge questionnaire. Construct validity, criterion validity and reliability tests were performed.

RESULTS

Factor analysis of the Hebrew version of the prolapse and incontinence knowledge questionnaire demonstrated 12 strong positive factor loadings to one principal factor in the prolapse and incontinence knowledge questionnaire-pelvic organ prolapse domain (FL > 0.3) and 10/12 in the prolapse and incontinence knowledge questionnaire-urinary incontinence domain. The Hebrew prolapse and incontinence knowledge questionnaire was found to have internal consistency, with Cronbach alpha coefficient of 0.745 for the urinary incontinence domain and 0.796 for the pelvic organ prolapse domain.

CONCLUSIONS

The Hebrew version of the prolapse and incontinence knowledge questionnaire is a new, reliable, consistent, and valid instrument to examine the level of knowledge regarding pelvic floor disorders in Hebrew-speaking pregnant women.

Updated Prevalence of Urinary Incontinence in Women: 2015-2018 National Population-Based Survey Data

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to update estimates of urinary incontinence (UI) prevalence and associated risk factors for adult women in the United States, using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).

METHODS

We used descriptive analysis of 2015-2018 NHANES weighted data for women to estimate prevalence and characterize UI types and severity. Logistic regression modeling determined adjusted associations with UI.

RESULTS

Complete data were available for 5,006 women. In weighted analyses, 61.8% had UI, corresponding to 78,297,094 adult U.S. women, with 32.4% of all women reporting symptoms at least monthly. Of those with UI, 37.5% had stress urinary incontinence, 22.0% had urgency urinary incontinence, 31.3% had mixed symptoms, and 9.2% had unspecified incontinence. The prevalence of moderate or more severe UI by Sandvik Severity Index was 22.1%, corresponding to 28,454,778 adult U.S. women. In multivariate models, increasing age, body mass index ≥25, prior vaginal birth, anxiety, depression, functional dependence, and non-Hispanic White ethnicity and race were associated with any and moderate UI. Urinary incontinence was not associated with diabetes, education level, prior hysterectomy, smoking status, physical activity level, or current pregnancy status.

CONCLUSIONS

More than 60% of community-dwelling adult women in the United States experience any UI and an increase from prior estimates (38%-49%) using NHANES data from 1999 to 2004; more than 20% experience moderate or more severe UI. Increases in UI prevalence may be related to population aging and increasing obesity prevalence. Age greater than 70 years, body mass index >40, and vaginal birth had the strongest association with UI in multivariate modeling.

International Urogynaecology Consultation chapter 1 committee 4: patients' perception of disease burden of pelvic organ prolapse

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

This manuscript from Chapter 1 of the International Urogynecology Consultation (IUC) on Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) reports on the patients' perception of disease burden associated with pelvic organ prolapse.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An international group containing a team of eight urogynaecologists, a physiotherapist and a statistician performed a search of the literature using pre-specified search terms in PubMed and Embase (January 2000 to August 2020). The division of sections within this report includes: (1) perception of POP and the relationship with body image and poor health; (2) a vaginal bulge as it impacts health and wellbeing in women; (3) the impact of POP on sexual life; (4) body image and pelvic floor disorders; (5) POP and mood; (6) appropriate use of treatment goals to better meet patients' expected benefits; (7) using health-related quality of life questionnaires to quantify patients' perception of POP; (8) The financial burden of POP to patients and society. Abstracts were reviewed and publications were eliminated if not relevant or did not include populations with POP or were not relevant to the subject areas as noted by the authors. The manuscripts were next reviewed for suitability using the Specialist Unit for Review Evidence (SURE) checklists for cohort, cross-sectional and case-control epidemiologic studies.

RESULTS

The original individual literature searches yielded 2312 references of which 190 were used in the final manuscript. The following perceptions were identified: (1) women were found to have varying perceptions of POP including shame and embarrassment. Some regard POP as consequence of aging and consider there is no effective therapy. (2) POP is perceived as a vaginal bulge and affects lifestyle and emotional wellbeing. The main driver for treatment is absence of bulge sensation. (3) POP is known to affect frequency of sexual intercourse but has less impact on satisfaction. (4) Prolapse-specific body image and genital self-image are important components of a women's emotional, physical and sexual wellbeing. (5) POP is commonly associated with depression and anxiety symptoms which impact HRQoL although are not correlated with objective anatomical findings. (6) Patient-centered treatment goals are useful in facilitating communication, shared decision-making and expectations before and after reconstructive surgery. (7) Disease-specific HRQoL questionnaires are important tools to assess bother and outcome following surgery, and there are now several tools with Level 1 evidence and a Grade A recommendation. (8) The cost of POP to the individual and to society is considerable in terms of productivity. In general, conservative measures tend to be more cost-effective than surgical intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients' perception of POP varies in different patients and has a far-reaching impact on their overall state of health and wellbeing. However, recognizing that it is a combination of body image and overall health (which affects mental health) allows clinicians to better tailor expectations for treatment to individual patients. There are HRQoL tools that can be used to quantify these impacts in clinical care and research. The costs to the individual patient (which affects their perception of POP) is an area that is poorly understood and needs more research.

Representation of Minority Groups in Key Pelvic Floor Disorder Trials

BACKGROUND

Multicenter randomized clinical trials on pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) support evidence-based care. However, many of these studies include homogenous study populations lacking diversity. Heterogeneous sampling allows for greater generalizability while increasing knowledge regarding specific subgroups. The racial/ethnic makeup of key pelvic floor disorder (PFD) trials has not been examined.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate racial/ethnic representation in major PFD clinical trials in comparison to racial/ethnic distribution of PFD in the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (NHANES).

METHODS

Demographic data were extracted from completed PFD Network (PFDN) and Urinary Incontinence Treatment Network studies, which have resulted in nearly 200 publications. Prevalence of PFD by race/ethnicity was obtained from the NHANES. A representative index (Observed "n" by PFD study/Expected "n" based on the NHANES-reported prevalence) was calculated as a measure of representation. Meta-analyses were performed for each outcome and overall with respect to race/ethnicity.

RESULTS

Eighteen PFDN/Urinary Incontinence Treatment Network studies were analyzed. White women comprised 70%-89% of PFD literature; Black women, 6%-16%; Hispanic women, 9%-15%; Asians, 0.5%-6%; and American Indians, 0%-2%. Representation of White women was higher in 13 of 18 PFDN studies compared with the NHANES prevalence data. Representation of Black women was either decreased or not reported in 10 of 18 index studies compared with the NHANES prevalence data. Hispanic women were absent or underrepresented in 7 of 18 PFDN studies compared with the prevalence data.

CONCLUSIONS

Our examination of PFDN and other landmark trials demonstrates inconsistent reporting of minority subgroups, limiting applicability with respect to minority populations. Our study suggests that PFD research would benefit from targeted sampling of minority groups.

Relationship Between Blood Glucose and Hemoglobin A1c Levels and Urinary Incontinence in Women

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the associations between blood glucose and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels with the degree of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and urgency urinary incontinence (UUI) in women.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study of female participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database between 2007 and 2012. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to assess the relationship between blood glucose and HbA1c levels and the degree of SUI and UUI.

Results

A total of 3821 participants were enrolled in the study, of whom 2421 (63.4%) had no SUI, 1133 (29.7%) had monthly SUI, 267 (7.0%) had weekly SUI; 2883 (75.5%) had no UUI, 735 (19.2%) had monthly UUI, 203 (5.3%) had weekly UUI. The levels of blood glucose and HbA1c were positively correlated with SUI and UUI, and increased with increasing degree of UUI. Multivariate logistic regression showed that there was a positive association between blood HbA1c level and degree of SUI.

Conclusion

Our study found that blood glucose and HbA1c levels can be used as indicators of SUI and UUI severity in women.

Validation of a Spanish Version of the Prolapse and Incontinence Knowledge Questionnaire

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to validate a Spanish version of the Prolapse and Incontinence Knowledge Questionnaire (PIKQ).

METHODS

Validation and reliability testing of the Spanish version of the PIKQ was conducted in 2 phases. In the first phase, a translation-back-translation method by 6 bilingual researchers was utilized to generate a final Spanish translation. In the second phase, bilingual women were randomized to complete the Spanish or English version first, followed by the alternate language. Agreement between individual items from English and Spanish versions was assessed by percent agreement and κ statistics. Intraclass correlation coefficients compared overall PIKQ scores and pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and urinary incontinence (UI) subscores. To establish test-retest reliability, we calculated Pearson correlation coefficients. In order to have a precision of 10% for 90% agreement, so that the lower 95% confidence interval would not be less than 80% agreement, 50 bilingual participants were required.

RESULTS

Fifty-seven bilingual women were randomized and completed both versions of the PIKQ. Individual items showed 74%-97% agreement, good to excellent agreement (κ = 0.6-0.89) for 9 items and moderate agreement (κ = 0.4-0.59) for 14 items between English and Spanish PIKQ versions. Intraclass correlation coefficients of the overall score and POP and UI subscores showed excellent agreement (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.81-0.91). Pearson correlation coefficients between initial and repeat Spanish scores were high: overall (r = 0.87) and for POP (r = 0.81) and UI subscores (r = 0.77).

CONCLUSIONS

A valid and reliable Spanish version of the PIKQ has been developed to assess patient knowledge about UI and POP.

Applying a Health Equity Lens to Urinary Incontinence

Health equity is attained when everyone has the opportunity achieve the health they envision; however, health disparities are a barrier to health equity. As health disparities specific to urogynecology exist, it is critical to examine and contextualize them in a framework that improves understanding of what factors may drive these disparities to craft effective solutions. This article will review what we currently know about urinary incontinence disparities and provide a framework for evaluation as well as a framework for advancing health equity in the care of diverse patient populations with urinary incontinence.

Racial and Socioeconomic Factors Influence Utilization of Advanced Therapies in Commercially Insured OAB Patients: An Analysis of Over 800,000 OAB Patients

OBJECTIVE

To determine if racial and/or socioeconomic factors influence advanced therapy utilization for refractory overactive bladder (OAB) among the commercially insured.

METHODS

We queried Optum, a national claims database, between 2003 and 2017. Non-neurogenic OAB patients were identified using ICD-9/10 diagnosis codes. Demographic and treatment data were collected, including oral medication therapies (anticholinergic, beta3 agonists), and advanced therapies (OnabotulinumtoxinA [BTX], Sacral Nerve Stimulation [SNS], percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation [PTNS]). Associations between patient sociodemographic factors and advanced therapy utilization were explored.

RESULTS

Of 4,229,617 OAB patients, 807,612 (19%) received medical therapies, of which 95% received oral medications only and only 4.7% received advanced therapies. Asians had the lowest use of oral therapy use (14% vs 18%-19% in other races/ethnicities, P <0.05), and advanced therapy use (0.44% vs 0.71%-0.93%, P <0.05). Asians and Hispanics were least likely to utilize SNS therapy and most likely to use PTNS compared to Blacks and Whites. BTX use was similar between races/ethnicities (P <0.05). Female gender (OR 1.65 [CI 1.61,1.69]), younger age (<65) (OR 1.28 [1.25,1.31]), higher annual income ≥$40K (OR 1.09 [1.06,1.12]) and prior use of oral medications (OR 3.30 [3.21,3.38] for 1 medication) were significantly associated with receiving advanced therapies. Non-white race (OR 0.89 [0.87,0.91]), lower education level (less than a bachelor's degree) (OR 0.97 [0.94,0.99]), and Northeast region were associated with a lower likelihood of receiving advanced therapies (P <0.05 for all).

CONCLUSION

Among commercially insured, racial and socioeconomic factors predict utilization of advanced OAB therapies, including race/ethnicity, age, gender, education level, and region.

Women's health seeking behavior for pelvic floor disorders and its associated factors in eastern Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

Pelvic floor disorders (PFDs), include urinary incontinence, overactive bladder, anal incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse negatively affect physical, psychosocial, and economic wellbeing of women. In developing countries, less than a quarter of women with PFDs seek health care for their problem. Health care seeking for PFDs, and its associated factors, is little known in Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess health care seeking for PFDs, associated factors, and deterrents for seeking care.

METHODS

From a community based cross sectional study conducted form August 10 to September 4, 2016 to assess pelvic floor disorders, seven hundred four participants with PFDs drawn for health care seeking behavior analysis. Data were collected through interviewed administered questionnaire. Poisson regression model with robust variance was used to investigate the association of the independent variable with health care seeking behaviors. The results are reported in crude and adjusted prevalence ratio with 95% confidence intervals.

RESULT

Two hundred twenty five (32%; CI: 26.8-35.5) women sought care for their PFDs. Majority 160 (71%) of them seek care from government health facilities. Middle wealth index Adjusted Prevalence Ratio (APR) = 1.4, CI: 1.1, 1.8), autonomous decision making on own health (APR = 1.3, CI: 1.1, 1.7), and sever impact of PFDs on quality of life (APR = 1.4, CI:1.1, 1.9) were identified as associated factors for health care seeking.

CONCLUSION

A large number of women with pelvic floor disorder did not seek health care: this calls for urgent and tailored intervention to enhance health care seeking behaviors of women with PFD.

Knowledge of pelvic floor disorders in women seeking primary care: a cross-sectional study

Background

Pelvic floor disorders including urinary incontinence (UI) and pelvic organ prolapse (POP) are common conditions; however, most women with these symptoms do not seek care. Failure to seek care may be related to misconceptions about these conditions. The aim of this study was to assess the baseline knowledge of UI and POP among adult women presenting to primary care clinics, as well as factors associated with knowledge levels.

Methods

A survey with questions from previously validated UI and POP knowledge questionnaires (PIKQ-UI and PIKQ-POP, respectively) was self-administered to a cross-sectional group of adult female patients presenting to three primary care clinics: geriatric, community-based, and hospital-based. Participants’ demographics and medical histories were compared using ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis for continuous variables and Chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test for categorical variables. In order to compare various covariates with knowledge non-proficiency on PIKQ-UI and PIKQ-POP scales, unadjusted and adjusted ORs with 95% CIs were calculated using bivariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression, respectively.

Results

Of 346 participants, knowledge non-proficiency was similar and consistent across clinic sites and reached 72.0% for UI and 53.6% for POP. On multivariate analysis, lower educational attainment, being unaware of UI or POP as medical conditions, and having no history of care-seeking for these conditions were significantly associated with knowledge non-proficiency on UI, POP, or both.

Conclusions

Knowledge non-proficiency for UI and POP is common among women presenting for primary care. For UI, healthcare providers should assess patients’ actual understanding of the disease, especially among those with lower educational attainment, to eliminate any possible misconceptions. For POP, the focus should be on increasing awareness of this disease, as many women may have not previously heard of this condition. Simple strategies may increase knowledge in these areas and change care-seeking behaviors.

Study registration

None.

Relationship Satisfaction of Intimate Partners of Persons Living With Urinary Incontinence

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to examine effects of urinary incontinence (UI) on midlife women's relationships with their intimate partners, from the perspective of both women and their partners.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional, mixed-methods design.

SUBJECTS AND SETTING

Purposive, convenience/snowball sampling strategies and community-based recruitment strategies were used to enroll partnered, midlife women living with UI. Participants were 43 community-dwelling midlife couples residing in the southwestern United States; female participants had stress, urgency, or mixed UI by self-report. Data were also collected from their intimate partners.

METHODS

Participants completed confidential mailed study packets comprising questionnaires on demographic information and lower urinary tract symptom profile, valid measures of the quality of the relationship, and open-ended questions to explore the effect of UI on the relationship in the participants' own words. The packet included several validated instruments: the Incontinence Severity Index, Couples Satisfaction Index, Sexual Quality of Life-Female/Male, Relational Ethics Scale, and Couples' Illness Communication Scale. Quantitative data were analyzed using tests of differences between groups and correlation analysis. Qualitative data were explored for themes and tested for significant differences in word choice by z-score analysis.

RESULTS

We found no significant differences between women and their partners in measures of the relationship and no significant associations between UI symptom severity and relationship satisfaction. Distressed partners had significantly poorer scores on sexual quality of life (P < .001), relational ethics (P = .002), and communication about UI (P = .03). Distressed couples used significantly more words than did nondistressed couples who described the woman's withdrawal from shared activities (P = .005) and avoidance of physical intimacy (P = .003), which they attributed to UI.

CONCLUSIONS

Distressed couples demonstrated the negative effects of UI on emotional and physical intimacy. Distress was attributed to how the woman coped with symptoms but not with the severity of UI symptoms.

Sleep Quality and Daytime Sleepiness Among Women With Urgency Predominant Urinary Incontinence

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to examine the strength and direction of the association between urinary symptoms and both poor quality sleep and daytime sleepiness among women with urgency urinary incontinence.

METHODS

A planned secondary analysis of baseline characteristics of participants in a multicenter, double-blinded, 12-week randomized controlled trial of pharmacologic therapy for urgency-predominant urinary incontinence in ambulatory women self-diagnosed by the 3 Incontinence Questions was performed. Urinary symptoms were assessed by 3-day voiding diaries. Quality of sleep was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and daytime sleepiness using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale.

RESULTS

Of the 640 participants, mean (SD) age was 56 (±14) years and 68% were white. Participants reported an average of 3.9 (±3.0) urgency incontinence episodes per day and 1.3 (±1.3) episodes of nocturia per night. At baseline, 57% had poor sleep quality (PSQI score, >5) and 17% reported daytime sleepiness (Epworth Sleepiness Scale score, >10). Most women (69%) did not use sleeping medication during the prior month, whereas 13% reported use of sleeping medication 3 or more times per week. An increase in total daily incontinence episodes, total daily urgency incontinence episodes, total daily micturitions, and moderate to severe urge sensations were all associated with higher self-report of poor sleep quality according to the PSQI (all P ≤ 0.01). Higher scores on the Bother Scale and the Health-Related Quality of Life for overactive bladder on the Overactive Bladder Questionnaire were similarly associated with higher rates of poor sleep quality (both P ≤ 0.01). In subgroup analysis of those who took sleeping medications less than twice a week, there was still a significant relationship between incontinence measures and quality of sleep as measured by the PSQI. In multivariable analyses, greater frequency of nighttime urgency incontinence was associated with poor sleep quality (P = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Among ambulatory women with urgency urinary incontinence, poor sleep quality is common and greater frequency of incontinence is associated with a greater degree of sleep dysfunction. Women seeking urgency urinary incontinence treatment should be queried about their sleeping habits so that they can be offered appropriate interventions.

Knowledge of Pelvic Floor Disorders in Obstetrics

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to investigate knowledge and demographic factors associated with a lack of knowledge proficiency about urinary incontinence (UI) and pelvic organ prolapse (POP) among pregnant and postpartum women.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional survey of women receiving antepartum and postpartum care at 9 Connecticut sites. Knowledge was assessed using the validated Prolapse and Incontinence Knowledge Questionnaire. Lack of knowledge proficiency was defined as less than 80% and less than 50% correct responses on the Prolapse and Incontinence Knowledge Questionnaire UI and POP subscales. Logistic regression was used to evaluate unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Surveys from 399 diverse pregnant and postpartum women were analyzed. Three quarters showed a lack of knowledge proficiency about UI and POP (74.2%, 70.6%). After adjustment, increased odds of lacking UI knowledge proficiency were associated with primiparity versus nulliparity (OR, 4.73; 95% CI, 2.24-9.98), Hispanic versus white race (OR, 2.72; 95% CI, 1.18-6.01), and having a high school diploma/General Education Development/less (OR, 3.17; 95% CI, 1.34-7.48) or some college (OR, 2.55; 95% CI, 1.08-6.01) versus bachelor's degree; greater lack of POP knowledge proficiency was associated with having a high school diploma/General Education Development versus bachelor's degree (OR, 2.11; 95% CI, 1.05-4.26) and never seeing a urologist/urogynecologist versus those who had (OR, 0.30; 95% CI, 0.12-0.77). Women working in a medical field versus those who did not demonstrated decreased odds of lacking UI and POP knowledge proficiency (ORs, 0.26 [95% CI, 0.13-0.52] and 0.38 [95% CI, 0.21-0.70]).

CONCLUSIONS

Pregnant and postpartum women lack knowledge about UI and POP. Preconceptional counseling provides an opportunity for educational intervention.

The degree of bother and healthcare seeking behaviour in women with symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse from a developing gulf country

Background

The healthcare-seeking behaviour of women with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is affected by several factors including the cultural background. There is limited number of studies which addressed the healthcare-seeking behaviour in women with POP. The aim of this study was to determine the degree of bother, social impact and healthcare seeking behaviour of symptoms of POP in one of the Gulf countries and compare the results to published data from other areas.

Methods

All women who attended the three family development centres in our city between January 2010 and January 2011 and who had symptoms suggestive of POP were included in the study. The data was collected by well-trained interviewers.

Results

One hundred twenty-seven women reported symptoms of POP (mean age: 38.2 years; range: 18–71). Out of these, 111 (87.4%) had at least one activity (physical, social or prayers) or sexual relationship affected by POP symptoms. In 49 women (38%), the effect on at least one of these activities or relationships has been described as moderate and in 18 women (14%), the effect was severe.

Sixty-nine women (54%) did not seek medical advice due to: embarrassment to see medical doctors (51%), the belief that POP is normal among women (51%), hope for spontaneous resolution (48%), embarrassment to see male doctors (33%) and unawareness of the existence of medical treatment (30%).

On univariate analysis, the need to insert the finger in the vagina to empty the bladder or bowel and the interference of symptoms with physical activities, had significantly determined healthcare seeking attitude (P < 0.05 for all). However, on multivariate analysis interference with physical activities was the only significant determinant (P = 0.04).

Conclusions

Although POP had affected the quality of life in the majority of the affected women, unlike some other societies, more than half failed to seek healthcare advice mainly due to shyness and embarrassment and lack of proper knowledge about the condition. Interference of symptoms with physical activities was the main significant determinants of healthcare-seeking behaviour. Additional teaching campaigns designed according to cultural backgrounds in each society are required to address these sensitive issues.

Comprehension of Pelvic Organ Prolapse and Urinary Incontinence in Southern Appalachian Women

OBJECTIVES

Despite their growing prevalence, pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) remain undertreated and not well understood by patients, with treatment disparities noted in specific subgroups of women. The goal of the present study was to determine the basic understanding of PFDs of women in the southern Appalachian region of the United States, to determine factors that predict knowledge, and to explore the possible disparities in seeking access to care among women in this region who reported symptoms.

METHODS

A survey of patient knowledge of PFDs, specifically urinary incontinence (UI) and pelvic organ prolapse (POP), was conducted in Johnson City, Tennessee, and involved 305 female patients from this city and the surrounding region.

RESULTS

Almost half of the participants (43%) reported UI symptoms, with only 25% of these participants reporting treatment. A much smaller percentage (5%) reported POP symptoms, but 44% reported receiving treatment. Overall proficiency for UI knowledge was 54.4%, and 69.5% for POP knowledge. Higher UI knowledge was predicted (P < 0.05) by age younger than 60 years, annual income >$50,000, more than a high school education, and being married. UI knowledge was unrelated to the presence of UI symptoms, receipt of UI treatment, or having seen a urospecialist. Higher POP knowledge was predicted (P < 0.05) by annual income >$50,000, more than a high school education, and presence of POP symptoms. The only factor significantly predicting seeking treatment among women with UI symptoms was marital status.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall knowledge of both UI and POP was reasonably high in this population, suggesting appropriate self-education or education by providers in the region. The women most affected by UI, particularly those older than 60 years, were not well informed, and education by providers does not appear to specifically target women seeking treatment. We must continue to educate and further reduce the gap of knowledge and treatment regarding PFDs in southern Appalachia.

A comparison of normal and high post-void residual urine and urodynamic parameters in women with overactive bladder

Objective

To investigate voiding functions and assess the relationships of voiding parameters to overactive bladder symptoms and postvoiding residue volumes.

Materials and Methods

This is a retrospective study analyzing urodynamic parameters in patients who were diagnosed as having overactive in our urogynecology clinic between April 2014 and April 2016. A total of 290 women who met the selection criteria were included in the study. The patients were divided into two groups according to postvoiding residue volumes: group 1, postvoiding residue volumes <100 mL (n=135); group 2, postvoiding residue volumes ≥100 mL (n=155).

Results

A total of 290 women were included in the study; the mean age was 71.4 years. A total of 158 (54.5%) patients had detrusor over-activity during urodynamic testing. The mean maximum bladder capacity in elevated group 2 (postvoiding residue volumes ≥100 mL) was significantly higher than in group 1 (postvoiding residue volumes <100 mL) (p<0.01). Additionally, there was a significant difference between detrusor pressure at Q_max in both study groups (p<0.05). There were no significant differences in the first-sensation volume between the normal and elevated postvoiding residue volumes groups.

Conclusion

In conclusion, patients with overactive with elevated postvoiding residue volumes showed increased maximum bladder capacity, but detrusor over-activity was not more prevalent in these women compared with women with normal postvoiding residue volumes.

Urinary Incontinence and Health-Seeking Behavior Among White, Black, and Latina Women

OBJECTIVE

Fewer than half of women with urinary incontinence (UI) seek care for their condition. Our objective was to qualitatively assess the themes surrounding treatment-seeking behaviors.

METHODS

We conducted 12 focus groups with women and, using purposive sampling, we stratified by racial or ethnic group (white, black, Latina) and by UI frequency. All sessions were transcribed and coded for common themes. Comparative thematic analysis was used to describe similarities and differences among groups.

RESULTS

In total, 113 (39 white, 41 black, and 33 Latina) community-dwelling women participated in focus groups. There were no differences in treatment-seeking themes between groups with different UI frequency. However, certain themes emerged when comparing racial/ethnic groups. Women from all groups shared experiences of embarrassment and isolation because of UI, which were impediments to care seeking. White and black women described discussions with close friends or family that led to normalization of symptoms and prevented care seeking. Latina women maintained more secrecy about UI and reported the longest delays in seeking care. Women articulated a higher likelihood of seeking care if they had knowledge of treatment options, but white women were more likely to seek UI-related knowledge compared with black or Latina women. Physician communication barriers were identified in all groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite similar experiences, there are different perceptions about care seeking among white, black, and Latina women. Culturally relevant educational resources that focus on a range of treatment options may improve knowledge and thus improve care-seeking behaviors in women with UI.

Urinary Incontinence and Psychosocial Factors Associated With Intimate Relationship Satisfaction Among Midlife Women

OBJECTIVE

To explore associations among symptoms of urinary incontinence, severity of symptoms, and measures of psychosocial health that may be assessed during a well-woman screening examination and the possible contribution of these variables to the relationship satisfaction of partnered midlife women living with urinary incontinence.

DESIGN

Exploratory correlational design using self-report questionnaires.

SETTING

Community recruitment by posted fliers, advertisements, and social media.

PARTICIPANTS

Partnered women, ages 45 to 65 years, with urinary incontinence (N = 57).

METHODS

Self-report measures of severity of incontinence symptoms, relationship satisfaction, self-concept/emotional health (self-esteem, body image, depression, anxiety), and relationship factors (sexual quality of life, incontinence-related communication). Data were analyzed using Spearman rho correlation with an exploration of the contribution of study factors to relationship satisfaction through standard multiple regression.

RESULTS

The severity of urinary incontinence symptoms had no significant correlation with scores on relationship satisfaction or psychosocial health. Measures of self-concept/emotional health and relationship factors were significantly correlated with each other (r_s = .40-.75, p < .01) and with relationship satisfaction (r_s = .35-.71, p < .05). Preliminary exploration of the contribution of study factors to relationship satisfaction through exploratory regression analysis showed unique contributions from sexual quality of life (18.7%, p < .001) and depression (8.7%, p = .004).

CONCLUSION

Midlife women with urinary incontinence, regardless of symptom severity, might benefit from screening for poorer sexual quality of life and mild depression symptoms because these two study factors significantly contributed to poorer intimate relationship satisfaction among this study's participants.

Patient satisfaction after laparoscopic lateral suspension with mesh for pelvic organ prolapse: outcome report of a continuous series of 417 patients

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Sacropexy is considered the gold standard for the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) although dissection of the promontory may be challenging, particularly in obese women. Laparoscopic lateral suspension with mesh (LLS) could be an alternative.

METHODS

LLS provides lateral attachment by fibrosis of a vesicovaginal mesh. Clinical evaluation was performed at 1 year using the simplified POP quantification system (POP-Q). Primary outcomes were objective and subjective cure at 1 year. After a mean of 7.2 years the rates of reoperation and complications were assessed as secondary outcomes. Patient satisfaction was evaluated by telephone interview using a ten-point-scale and the PGI-I scale. Factors predicting satisfaction were determined by logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 417 patients were treated between 2003 and 2011. At 1 year 78.4% of patients were asymptomatic and anatomic success rates were 91.6% for the anterior compartment, 93.6% for the apical compartment and 85.3% for the posterior compartment. The complication rate of Clavien-Dindo grade III or higher was 2.2%. The mesh exposure rate was 4.3% and the reoperation rate was 7.3%. Of the 417 patients, 214 participated in the telephone interview. Over 85% rated their situation as improved and satisfaction was associated with the absence of concomitant hysterectomy.

CONCLUSIONS

LLS is a safe technique with promising results in terms of a composite outcome, low complication rates and high long-term patient satisfaction. However, a randomized controlled trial is needed to establish the technique as an alternative to sacropexy in the treatment of POP in obese and high morbidity patients.

An Approach to Urinary Incontinence for Dermatologists

Incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) is a condition often encountered by dermatologists. IAD is an inflammatory skin condition secondary to prolonged urine exposure-it is a dermatologic sequela of urinary incontinence. Incontinence should not be dismissed simply as an age-related disorder; rather, it is due to a number of pathologic conditions that can be either reversible or manageable. It is thus critical to identify and treat the underlying causes of urinary incontinence. Clinical management of this common medical issue restores normality to patients' lives while also preventing future dermatologic complications. In this article, we aim to provide dermatologists with an overview of IAD and an approach to the diagnosis and initial management of urinary incontinence.

Racial Disparities in Knowledge of Pelvic Floor Disorders Among Community-Dwelling Women

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate racial and ethnic differences in knowledge about preventative and curative treatments for pelvic floor disorders (PFD).

METHODS

The is a secondary analysis of responses from 416 community-dwelling women, aged 19 to 98 years, living in New Haven County, CT, who completed the Prolapse and Incontinence Knowledge Questionnaire. Associations between race/ethnicity (categorized as white, African American, and other women of color [combined group of Hispanic, Asian or "other" women] and knowledge proficiency about modifiable risk factors and treatments for PFD were evaluated. Associations were adjusted for age, marital status, socioeconomic status, education, working in a medical field, and PFD history.

RESULTS

Compared to white women, African American women were significantly less likely to recognize childbirth as a risk factor for urinary incontinence (UI) and pelvic organ prolapse (POP), to know that exercises can help control leakage, and to recognize pessaries as a treatment option for POP. Other women of color were also significantly less likely to know about risk factors, preventative strategies, and curative treatment options for POP and UI; however, these findings may not be generalizable given the heterogeneity and small size of this group.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant racial disparities exist in women's baseline knowledge regarding risk factors and treatment options for POP and UI. Targeted, culturally sensitive educational interventions are essential to enhancing success in reducing the personal and economic burden of PFD, which have proven negative effects on women's quality of life.

Knowledge of pelvic organ prolapse in patients and their information-seeking preferences: comparing Vienna and Moscow

Introduction and hypothesis

We hypothesized that knowledge of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and patient information-seeking preferences are the same in the two capital cities.

Methods

First-visit patients were recruited at tertiary referral urogynaecological units in Vienna (137) and in Moscow (112). A 16-item scale was used to assess the patient knowledge of POP. The 16 items comprised 12 specific items taken from the Prolapse and Incontinence Knowledge Questionnaire (PIKQ) and four added items. The preliminary psychometric assessment of the knowledge scales in German and Russian was performed in the Vienna and in Moscow centres.

Results

The mean total knowledge scores in patients in Vienna and in Moscow were not significantly different: 9.7 ± 3.5 vs. 9.8 ± 2.9 (p = 0.92). Patients in Vienna were more likely to answer questions about the pathogenesis of POP correctly. Patients in Moscow achieved higher scores for items assessing knowledge about the diagnosis of POP. Women in the two study groups equally preferred to obtain information about POP from medical specialists (72 % and 82 %; p = 0.61), followed by friends and family for patients in Vienna (25 %), and the internet for patients in Moscow (23 %). Patients in Vienna were more likely to use printed sources (18 % and 7 %; p = 0.001) than patients in Moscow.

Conclusions

The mean level of knowledge of POP did not differ between patients in Vienna and patients in Moscow. The differences between the specific knowledge domains might be explained by different cultural preferences for seeking health information and by the range of the information sources available.

Barriers to urinary incontinence care seeking in White, Black, and Latina women

OBJECTIVE

We compared barriers to urinary incontinence (UI) healthcare seeking between white, black, and Latina women.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional study using a convenience sample of white, black, and Latina women. Women completed the Barriers to Incontinence Care Seeking Questionnaire (BICS-Q), the Incontinence Quality of Life Instrument (I-QOL), the Questionnaire for Urinary Incontinence Diagnosis, and the Incontinence Severity Index (ISI). The primary objective was to assess barriers to UI care seeking among groups, as measured by the BICS-Q. Secondary objectives were to assess factors associated with barriers to incontinence care and to compare specific barriers using BICS-Q subscale scores. Regression analyses were used to further assess for differences among groups while adjusting for potential confounding variables.

RESULTS

We included a total of 93 subjects, including 30 white, 33 black, and 30 Latina women. Mean I-QOL, Questionnaire for Urinary Incontinence Diagnosis, and ISI scores were not significantly different among our 3 groups. Barriers, based on BICS-Q scores, were lowest in white women and higher in blacks and Latinas (2.9 vs 7.3 vs 10.9, respectively; P < 0.001). When adjusting for potential confounders such as age, income, education, presence of UI, ISI score, and I-QOL score, Latinas continued to demonstrate higher barriers compared with white or black women (β = 7.4; 95% CI, 2.2-12.7; P = 0.006). There were no significant differences between black women compared with other groups in the adjusted analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

Latinas experience more barriers to UI healthcare seeking compared with white and black women.

Knowledge of pelvic floor disorders in a population of community-dwelling women

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the study was to investigate baseline knowledge and demographic factors associated with a lack of knowledge about urinary incontinence (UI) and pelvic organ prolapse (POP).

STUDY DESIGN

This study was a community-based, cross-sectional survey of 431 racially and socioeconomically diverse women aged 19-98 years. The Prolapse and Incontinence Knowledge Questionnaire was used to assess participants' knowledge. Primary endpoints were the total number of correct responses on the UI and POP scales, respectively. Percentages of individuals answering each item or group of items correctly were explored as secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

All women lacked knowledge proficiency about UI and POP, although knowledge about UI was slightly greater than knowledge about POP. Overall, 71.2% of subjects lacked UI proficiency (<80% correct), whereas 48.1% lacked proficiency in POP knowledge (<50% correct). Black women demonstrated significantly less knowledge about UI and POP than white women, both before and after adjustment for age, education, and household income. When combined into 1 group, Asian, Hispanic, and other women also showed significantly less UI and POP knowledge than white women. Most women who reported symptoms of UI had not received treatment for their problems.

CONCLUSION

There is a global lack of knowledge about UI and POP among community-dwelling women, with more pronounced knowledge gaps among nonwhite women. UI and POP are chronic medical conditions that should be included in routine screening questions for well-woman care. Further studies are needed to explore how best to educate and improve women's awareness of these prevalent pelvic floor disorders.

Perceptions about female urinary incontinence: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Perceptions about urinary incontinence (UI) may have a differential impact on treatment-seeking behaviors. Thus, we aimed to systematically review perceptions regarding UI in women of different racial and ethnic populations.

METHODS

MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scirus, Google Scholar, Open J-Gate, AgeLine, and Global Health (CABI) were searched from January 1980 to August 2011. We included qualitative studies that described knowledge, perception, or personal views about UI in women. Studies were excluded if they did not specify race/ethnicity of subjects, if they reported on non-UI urinary symptoms, or if they were performed exclusively in men. Three independent reviewers screened all studies. The relevance, appropriateness, transparency, and soundness (RATS) scale for qualitative research was used to assess study quality. Because of the qualitative data, meta-analyses were not performed.

RESULTS

Of 3,676 citations, 23 studies met the inclusion criteria. Based on the RATS scale, these were categorized into 11 high-, 2 moderate-, and 10 low-quality studies. Dominant themes fell into two categories, UI management and UI experience, and were similar across racial/ethnic groups. Across multiple studies, women reiterated a preference for discussing UI with other women, even if this was not a physician. Non-white women expressed self-blame and perceived UI as a negative outcome from childbirth or prior sexual experiences. Latina women maintained more secrecy around this issue, even amongst family members.

CONCLUSIONS

Women across different racial and ethnic groups share similar UI management strategies and UI experiences. However, perceptions about UI may differ in certain populations. These findings could be useful when considering future educational strategies regarding UI in women.

Gender-specific external barriers to seeking care for urinary incontinence

BACKGROUND

Barriers to seeking care for urinary incontinence are specific, objective, external conditions that prevent incontinence sufferers from seeking treatment. The aim of this study was to compare barriers, gender, and health care disparities in incontinence sufferers.

METHODS

Incontinent patients were recruited into a questionnaire-based cross-sectional study. The 14-item Barriers to Incontinence Care Seeking Questionnaire (BICS-Q) and the three-item International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ-UI SF) were used to evaluate barriers to seeking health care for urinary incontinence.

RESULTS

The representative sample (n = 1014) finally included 567 adults eligible to participate in this study (response rate 55.9%). Of the 147 incontinent males, 93 (63.3%) did not seek care, and of the 420 incontinent females, 282 (67.1%) did not seek care. Untreated males had significantly higher BICS-Q scores than other patients. Risk factors for barriers were obesity (odds ratio 2.13 for females versus 0.83 for males), stress urinary incontinence (1.57 versus 9.38, respectively), and urgency urinary incontinence (2.40 versus 1.75).

CONCLUSION

The barriers to seeking care for urinary incontinence seem to be gender-specific. Obese females with urgency urinary incontinence and males with stress urinary incontinence were least likely to seek treatment.

Disclosure: a concept analysis

AIM

This article is a report of a concept analysis of disclosure.

BACKGROUND

Disclosure of health concerns is often delayed or incomplete, resulting in a lack of appropriate care or inability to avoid complications. Disclosure is a poorly understood phenomenon in nursing, however, an understanding of the concept is critical to providing effective nursing care.

DATA SOURCES

Literature from the humanities, social sciences, business, law, nursing and allied health fields in five search engines was reviewed for insight into a patient's decision to disclose health information to a healthcare provider.

REVIEW METHODS

Wilson's method of concept analysis guided this study into the meaning of disclosure from the point of view of a patient seeking healthcare. Inclusive years of search ranged from 1991 to 2010.

RESULTS

Disclosure is defined as the act of seeking care by revealing personally significant information that exposes the bearer to the risk of rejection or negative judgment. Attributes of disclosure are identified as: holding significant health-related information, assistance needed to cope, tolerance for unpredictable result, divulgence and expectation of serious response. Consequences of disclosure include resolution, reassurance or assistance gained, but may also include suffering rejection or negative repercussions.

CONCLUSION

Implications for nursing practice are explored and include focused questioning, providing for safety concerns, acknowledging significance and sensitivity of disclosed information and acting on the disclosure.

Women with diabetes: understanding urinary incontinence and help seeking behavior

PURPOSE

We examined the association of urinary incontinence with diabetes status and race, and evaluated beliefs about help seeking for incontinence in a population based cohort of women with vs without diabetes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a cross-sectional analysis of 2,270 middle-aged and older racially/ethnically diverse women in the Diabetes Reproductive Risk factors for Incontinence Study at Kaiser. Incontinence, help seeking behavior and beliefs were assessed by self-report questionnaires and in-person interviews. We compared incontinence characteristics in women with and without diabetes using univariate analysis and multivariate models.

RESULTS

Women with diabetes reported weekly incontinence significantly more than women without diabetes (weekly 35.4% vs 25.7%, p <0.001). Race prevalence patterns were similar in women with and without diabetes with the most vs the least prevalence of incontinence in white and Latina vs black and Asian women. Of women with diabetes 42.2% discussed incontinence with a physician vs 55.5% without diabetes (p <0.003). Women with diabetes were more likely than those without diabetes to report the belief that incontinence is rare (17% vs 6%, p <0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Incontinence is highly prevalent in women with diabetes. Race prevalence patterns are similar in those with and without diabetes. Understanding help seeking behavior is important to ensure appropriate patient care. Physicians should be alert for urinary incontinence since it is often unrecognized and, thus, under treated in women with diabetes.